The British Council announced this week that it has put into practice new, innovative English teaching techniques specially designed to suit the Qatari market. The British Council’s own Qatar-focused teaching style features in two new courses: Business and Professional English, and English for Students at International Schools. Both are designed to meet the fast-changing language needs of Qatar’s community.

“Qatar is not standing still in response to change, and nor is the British Council in its offering to Qatar,” said Director of English Language Services at the British Council, Qatar, Robert Taylor. “As a member of the local community, we have been able to gain a good understanding of Qatar’s particular needs in English, and we have adapted our courses to meet those needs.”

‘Business and Professional English’ builds the practical, professional English skills necessary for success: conducting meetings, presenting with certainty, running interviews, and other aspects of leading a professional career. This improves upon traditional models of English teaching because it recognises that a large proportion of Qatari English learners are already familiar with a business environment or are potential entrepreneurs, so have a special interest in being able to use effective professional English right from the start. Given Qatar’s increasing prominence on the world stage and its strengthening economy, it is especially important for Qataris to have a strong command of English as the international language of business.

Expecting this course to be popular, the British Council has already opened pre-registration so potential learners can book appointments early.

‘English for Students at International Schools’ is the second of The British Council’s specially tailored courses for the Qatari market. In response to the growing number of international schools being founded in Qatar, this course specialises in offering English as a second language for international students. As the world’s most widely spoken second language, English is necessary for children’s future success in any part of the globe. In Qatar, good English skills in addition to Arabic are particularly important because of the state emphasis on a knowledge-based economy and social development to uphold the National Vision 2030.

Key dates for the Business and Professional English course: pre-registration is currently open for bookable appointments. The main registration period is Tuesday 4th March to Thursday 13th March. Courses run from 15th March to 22nd May.